After two regional competitions between over two dozen bartenders in Aspen, CO and Jackson, WY late this fall, Wyoming Whiskey brought five finalists from each location up to a festive final competition held at the Pink Garter Theater in Jackson, WY on Dec. 1.

The focus of the event was to create the best Wyoming Whiskey cocktail the West has ever seen. Wyoming Whiskey Ambassador and world-renowned cocktail guru, David Kaplan of Death & Co. judged both the regional and final competitions. Reigning WW Shootout Champion, Chad Taylor, and Arbor Snowboard athlete, Mark Carter, judged the Finals alongside Kaplan.

“Here’s to all of our participating bartenders who had the guts to be judged in a rowdy venue. They showed a greater passion for this competition than we ever expected.” said David DeFazio, COO of Wyoming Whiskey. “And a round of applause for Jacob who started a rivalry that will be revisited for years to come. He crushed it.”

Johnson’s creation secured him the $2,500 cash purse, a pair of Blizzard skis and Tecnica ski boots, $500 for the charity of his choice, and in true Wyoming fashion, the coveted Ski Town Showdown Champion’s belt buckle.

Stay caught up on all things WW by becoming a Whiskey Baron. You’ll receive the latest news from Wyoming Whiskey direct to your inbox. For more frequent updates, follow Wyoming Whiskey on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

About Wyoming Whiskey

Based in Kirby, Wyoming, Wyoming Whiskey has a simple goal: to create America’s next great bourbon. The company and product is a collaboration between its partners and 97,818 square miles of Wyoming. The Mead family first came to Wyoming as ranchers in 1890 and the state defines them, and their whiskey. They use the finest corn, wheat, barley, and water from the Big Horn Basin and promote Wyoming’s natural and human resources. Every drop of this bourbon is 100% Wyoming. To learn more, visit http://www.wyomingwhiskey.com.